In a meeting ahead of the 24th Meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in Astana, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev discussed the future trajectory of China-Uzbekistan relations. The discussions underscored the commitment of both nations to promote high-quality development and cooperation with the well-being of their peoples in mind.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
President Xi highlighted the importance of their meeting, noting the successful state visit of President Mirziyoyev to China in January 2024.
During that visit, China and Uzbekistan had agreed to elevate their relationship to an all-weather comprehensive strategic partnership for a new era. This agreement marked a new stage in the development of bilateral relations, aimed at constructing a China-Uzbekistan community with a shared future from a higher starting point.
"This year marks the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China. China is accelerating its modernization, and Uzbekistan is advancing the 'Uzbekistan-2030' strategy. Our shared goal is grand yet simple: to deliver a better life for our people," President Xi remarked.
Belt and Road Cooperation
President Xi emphasized the importance of advancing the Belt and Road cooperation. He urged both sides to implement the medium- and long-term cooperation plan on economy, trade, and investment, and to expedite the construction of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway. Additionally, he highlighted the potential for cooperation in the fields of photovoltaic, wind power, and new energy vehicles. Strengthening cooperation in poverty reduction and social governance was also noted as a priority.
China supports expanding exchanges at the sub-national level, including in tourism, education, and other fields. President Xi welcomed Uzbekistan's participation in the seventh China International Import Expo as the guest country of honor.
Shared Strategic Interests
Reaffirming China's steadfast support for Uzbekistan, President Xi stated,
"China firmly supports Uzbekistan in safeguarding its national independence, sovereignty, and security. We are always a trustworthy friend and partner."
President Xi called for the speedy implementation of the outcomes of the China-Central Asia Summit held in Xi'an. He emphasized the need for strengthened coordination and cooperation to ensure that the SCO develops in a direction that serves the common interests of all parties involved.
Uzbekistan's Commitment
President Mirziyoyev echoed the sentiments of President Xi, expressing his gratitude for the warm welcome he received during his state visit to China. He noted that the elevation of China-Uzbekistan ties to an all-weather comprehensive strategic partnership marked a new era in their relations.
Under the wise leadership of President Xi, China has successfully navigated various risks and challenges, achieving world-leading progress in the fields of economy, science, and technology, President Mirziyoyev said. He congratulated President Xi and wished success for the upcoming third plenary session of the 20th Communist Party of China Central Committee.
Multilateral Collaboration
Highlighting the importance of multilateral collaboration, President Mirziyoyev stated that Uzbekistan is eager to closely coordinate and cooperate with China within the China-Central Asia mechanism, the SCO, and other multilateral frameworks. He also expressed Uzbekistan's readiness to promote the implementation of the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilization Initiative proposed by President Xi.
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